'If I need to prove my value, I’m not in that space': Kohli on ODI future, 2027 World Cup | WATCH

Bengaluru: Batting legend Virat Kohli has addressed his international future and the possibility of competing in the 2027 ODI World Cup, asserting that while he remains perpetually prepared for competition, he will not remain in an environment where he is forced to repeatedly justify his selection.

During a feature on the RCB Podcast, shared via the team’s official social media channels, the 37-year-old clarified his stance on his current role as an ODI specialist. Kohli, who retired from the T20 international format following India’s 2024 World Cup triumph and stepped away from Test cricket last year after a period of fluctuating form, emphasised that his participation depends on mutual respect and value.

"My perspective is very clear. If I can add value to the environment that I am a part of, and the environment feels like I can add value, I will be seen. If I am made to feel like I need to prove my worth and my value, I'm not in that space. Because I am being honest to my preparation," Kohli said.

Commitment to the Craft

With the ODI format occupying a smaller portion of the global cricket schedule, debate has intensified regarding Kohli’s longevity and fitness for the next World Cup cycle. Kohli countered these doubts by highlighting his rigorous professional standards, noting that his daily lifestyle is built around constant readiness.

"I prepare for the fact that I will field 50 overs, every ball like it's the last ball I'm going to play in my career," he said. "And I will bat that way. And I will run between the wickets that way. And I will do everything possible for the team. After operating like this, if I have to be in a place where I have to prove my worth and value, that place is not meant to be for me."

Kohli drew a parallel to a conventional workplace, criticising inconsistent management where an employee's talent is questioned shortly after being affirmed. He insisted that if the leadership believes in a player’s capability, they should remain silent and allow the athlete to perform without external noise.

Rediscovering Joy in Domestic Cricket

The veteran batter recently returned to the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi after a 20-year absence, a stint in which he recorded 208 runs across two matches, including a century and a fifty. He described the experience of playing in front of empty stands at the Centre of Excellence as a deeply personal rediscovery of his passion for the sport.

"I was like, this is not about anyone else. This is about me and the game. And that is what it is going to be," Kohli added, noting that during the tournament, he "felt like a child again."

A Statistical Titan

Kohli’s current form remains formidable. He currently sits third on the IPL Orange Cap leaderboard with 484 runs in 12 innings. His historical ODI resume is unparalleled, boasting 14,797 runs in 311 matches at an average of 58.71, with a world-record 54 centuries.

Despite the scarcity of ODI matches last year, Kohli led India’s scoring with 651 runs at an average of 65.10. His performance in 2026 has been equally elite, with 240 runs in three innings at an average of 80.00.

Regarding the "2027 chat," Kohli noted that while he is constantly asked about his plans, his focus is on the current year. He confirmed that if he is playing, his intent is to continue contributing at the highest level, provided the "value is two sides." Following the conclusion of the IPL, Kohli is scheduled to represent India in a home ODI series against Afghanistan beginning June 14.

With inputs from ANI